Based on a review of an investigation by the Michigan State Police, department policies, and past disciplinary actions, the Governor has ordered that Col. Etue will have a suspension of pay for 5 days while reporting to work and demonstrating outstanding leadership by example for the men and women she commands.

Statement from Gov. Rick Snyder:

“Colonel Etue posted something on social media that was inappropriate. She immediately apologized and has acted to demonstrate that apology, including facilitating meetings with various groups to hear concerns and to share the work the Michigan State Police does in cities and neighborhoods statewide to connect with the communities they serve and recruit new troopers from all backgrounds.

“I have full faith in Col. Etue’s leadership as the commander of the Michigan State Police, which I believe to be the best law enforcement body in the nation. The Colonel has served honorably as an enlisted trooper for 30 years, and I hope we can come together as Michiganders to move forward and find common ground, rather than rehash past mistakes.”

Kriste Etue

Etue’s Twitter comment which sparked the uproar among many users and citizens of Michigan reads as follows: “Dear NFL: We will not support millionaire ingrates who hate America and disrespect our Armed Forces and Veterans. Who wins a football game has ZERO impact on our lives. Who fights for and defends our nation has EVERY impact on our lives. We stand with the Heroes, not a bunch of rich, entitled, arrogant, ungrateful, anti-American degenerates. Signed, We the People.”

Also today, Gov. Snyder announced a comprehensive plan to review the culture of state government across all departments and all levels of employment.

“We all live with the reality of a very divisive national environment, and we can work proactively to address that in Michigan,” Gov. Rick Snyder said. “I have long advocated for more civility in politics and in life in general. We have an opportunity for Michigan to be a model in restoring civility and showing people how we can work together, and I intend on taking advantage of that opportunity.

“If there is a problem that can be solved at the state government level, we want to solve it. What we need to solve is a broader issue that has brought up concerns of numerous examples across the state and nation that we can come together to understand and fix.

“We are the best Michigan when we are a diverse Michigan, and I will continue taking actions to ensure all state departments are working to effectively serve all residents in an impartial and inclusive manner.”

Gov. Snyder is taking numerous actions to review, and if necessary, address inclusiveness within all state departments, including: